Connect with people who understand what you are going through, seek advice and surround yourself with support. We're free, anonymous, and professionally moderated 24/7.

47,612Members
1,358,869Posts
1,400,000Visitors

Overwhelmed

Ted36New Contributor11 June 2024, 4:47 pm AEST

Overwhelmed

Hi. This is my first time posting, and I’m not too sure where to start. I’m in a rut, I have extensive issues I’m trying to deal with as a sole parent where both myself and my son have been diagnosed adhd/autistic. Life just keeps ramming more life down my throat and although I have a positive outlook, I am finding it hard to cope at times. I push myself until breaking point and as would be expected I break down and either self sabotage or make more of a mess of my life. This time I’m recognizing the signs of shutdown/breakdown before it’s gotten too bad but I can’t stop working and seek the help I need because I need the money. I guess I’m just wanting to discuss my issues and see if someone has some advice or strategies that may help going forward. Thank you for reading.

3 replies

1 - 3 of 3

In response to: Overwhelmed

lavenderhazeSenior Contributor11 June 2024, 4:56 pm AEST

Re: Overwhelmed

Thank you for reaching out, and I'm really sorry to hear about the challenges you're facing @Ted36.

It sounds incredibly overwhelming to navigate being a sole parent while dealing with ADHD and autism diagnoses for both you and your son.

It's positive that you're recognizing the signs of breakdown and shutdown early, but I understand how difficult it can be to prioritise self-care when financial pressures are a concern.

Have you found any coping strategies or support systems that have helped you in the past, even in small ways?

Some people find it helpful to break tasks into smaller, more manageable chunks or to schedule short breaks throughout the day to recharge. Additionally, you might be eligible for Guided Service support at SANE. It's a free service: https://www.sane.org/referral. I would encourage you to have a look at that.

You're not alone, and we're here to listen and offer support however we can. ❤️

In response to: Overwhelmed

GlistenSenior Contributor11 June 2024, 5:35 pm AEST

Re: Overwhelmed

@Ted36 Hello 👋🏼 Welcome to the forum. Thank you for posting your truth.

Three generations of my family have ADHD. I was diagnosed 20 years ago.

I am a single parent of three children. They survived my pre-diagnoses parenting and are now in their 30s and have children of their own and we are very close.

I totally agree with @lavenderhaze

We are here for you.

In response to: Overwhelmed

OM108Senior Contributor12 June 2024, 12:03 pm AEST

Re: Overwhelmed

@Ted36

Warm welcome to a place where all our struggles can be shared and heard. It helps a lot to simply speak out your issues and get clarity on what is important to you. There is a lot on offer here....perhaps you might want to check out the support offered by SANE and search the different conversation threads. Making friends and meeting others struggling with the same issues can be hugely supportive emotionally.

Glad to hear you have a hope and a positive outlook. I sense that you have a lot of talents and are a good parent. Are there any community or family support centres with social workers near you, where you can visit to discuss alternatives to working (at the moment) or other financial supports? Often there are free resources that might help you with daily needs.

Dont hesitate to reach out if you need to vent or share how things are going. We are here for you.

1 - 3 of 3